Moissanite

Moissanite is a mineral discovered by French chemist Dr. Henri Moissan in 1893. He was searching for crystalline chemical compositions with electrical conductivity. Instead, he discovered a diamond-like gemstone.

This stone was made of silicon carbide, an extremely rare mineral that is sometimes referred to as a “gem from the stars” because of its meteorite origins. Some believe it strengthens one’s connection with the universe. After Dr. Moissan discovered the stone, he spent the rest of his life trying to recreate the mineral. While he was unable to recreate the gem, it has since been known as “moissanite” in his honor.

In the late 1990s, Charles & Colvard created the process for lab-grown moissanite. With the stone so rarely occurring in nature, this technique became the main form of moissanite for luxury jewelry. It can take up to three months to create one of these striking stones, but the time investment is well worth it for the diamond-like look.

Moissanite is often compared to diamonds due to the similarity in appearance, but there are distinguishing characteristics between the two. Notably, moissanite is known for its fire or colored flashes. While diamonds have a white light reflection, moissanite has a rainbow-like reflection that can be seen as the light shifts. Moissanite also has a slight yellow or green tint, which is only recognizable in certain lighting.

One of the most advantageous qualities of moissanite is its hardness. Diamond remains the hardest stone with a 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, but Moissanite follows closely behind with a 9.25.

Lab-made Moissanite is a stunning stone for bespoke jewelry due to its fire flashes and diamond-like hardness. Use this gem as a substitute for a diamond, or choose it for its eye-catching rainbow reflection. The Intrepid Wendell takes time to understand your story when creating your custom pieces, so even the smallest details have meaning.

The Intrepid Wendell crafts a variety of jewelry pieces, from pendants and earrings to lapel pins and cufflinks. Our bespoke design process also suits moissanite engagement rings to create something completely unique for your partner. Use various band details and setting designs to complement a central moissanite stone, or use a series of small stones for a different look. Moissanite’s rainbow-like reflection works beautifully with white, yellow, and rose gold.